Shanghai motor show 2011 - Volvo Concept Universe

Volvo's Concept Universe gives a taste of how the brand's design language could evolve under the ownership of Chinese manufacturer Geely.

It's the first concept car to take familiar Volvo lines and blend them with Chinese design qualities since Geely bought Volvo from Ford in August 2010.

Beyond the influence of Chinese porcelain in the cabin, the concept car has a striking front end and coupe-like rear three-quarters that could end up gracing the next S80 – or an even bigger luxury car contender.

Because the Chinese car market is expected to grow significantly over the coming years, manufacturers are keen to secure sales footholds by directly appealing to customers in China ahead of others.

Nevertheless, Volvo boss Stefan Jacoby said the car will need to appeal to a wider audience than just China.

Mr Jacoby said: 'Our aim is to be the brand that best understands what buyers of modern luxury cars want. We are eager to hear what the most demanding Chinese customers think of this luxurious concept car. Later, we will show the design in Europe and the United States in order to bring it into the global context that we are aiming for with all our models.'